Police Horses Pegasus & Platon

A top athlete, friend, therapist – and sometimes even a police officer. Horses take on many roles in our society, for example in the mounted police force in Munich. They are not only work colleagues for the officers, but also close, trusted partners and reliable companions in the field.

The indispensable work of police horses

The Munich police equestrian squadron has been an integral part of the security forces since 1898. In addition to traditional patrol missions, the horses and their riders are deployed at major events, searches for missing persons and, in particular, at football matches. Thanks to their high mobility, endurance and manoeuvrability, they are often more effective than technical equipment in difficult terrain. Their imposing appearance also has a de-escalating effect and contributes significantly to the prevention of violence.

Plato and Pegasus – two loyal striped partners have to go

The police horses Platon and Pegasus were also part of this traditional unit. Carefully selected and trained, they began their service as young horses – Platon at the age of six, Pegasus at four. However, despite the careful selection, health problems arose in both of them. Vets were consulted, therapies were tried – but at some point they could go no further. Platon suffers from chronic lameness at the front left, known as hoof roll syndrome. Pegasus was lame at the back right – a pastern injury. After ten loyal years of service, it was clear that they were no longer suitable for police work. The officers had to find new animal partners, and the boxes were needed for horses on duty.